Using just a few PowerShell commands you can force Azure AD Connect to run a full or delta (most common) sync.
5 Steps total
Step 1: Start PowerShell
Using any of these methods, or any other you may know of:
- WinKey + R (Run Dialog): powershell.exe
- Start Menu -> type ‘Powershell’, click it
- Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\WindowsPowerShell\V1.0\powershell.exe
Step 2: (optional/dependent) Connect to the AD Sync Server
If you’re running PowerShell on the Server where AD Connect is running, skip this step.
In the command window run the following command, replacing [SERVERNAME] with the name of the server you need to connect to (you may not be able to do this is PSRemoting is not enabled on the remote server):
Enter-PSSession -ComputerName [SERVERNAME]
Step 3: Import the ADSync Module
Run the following command:
Import-Module ADSync
Step 4: Run the Sync Command
Run the following Command(s):
- For a Delta Sync (most common, and used for most situations):
-
Start-ADSyncSyncCycle -PolicyType Delta
-
- For a Full Sync (only necessary in some situations):
-
Start-ADSyncSyncCycle -PolicyType Initial
-
Step 5: (Optional/Dependent) Exit PSSession
If you used the Enter-PSSession command, you must exit the session or it will remain open even after terminating the PS Host. You can do so by simply using the command:
Exit
Alternatively, you can achieve this with the GUI, see reference below.